Japanese automotive giant Subaru has stunned performance car enthusiasts worldwide with the unexpected revival of its legendary WRX STI badge at the Tokyo Auto Salon. The new S210 model marks a significant departure from tradition, showcasing increased power but controversially ditching the beloved manual transmission in favor of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), marketed under the name “Subaru Performance Transmission.”
This surprising announcement comes nearly three years after Subaru declared that a true STI version of the current WRX generation would never see production, presumably due to increasingly stringent emissions regulations. The limited-edition S210, based on the Japanese domestic market WRX S4 STI Sport R EX, represents what Subaru calls “the pinnacle of the STI complete cars,” though some purists might question this claim given its transmission choice.
Under the hood, the S210 features an enhanced version of the 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, now producing 296 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. These figures represent modest increases of 25 horsepower and 19 lb-ft over the standard American-market WRX. However, the new model’s output falls notably short of its predecessor, the 2019 S209, which boasted an impressive 341 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, along with the now-absent six-speed manual transmission.
Performance improvements in the S210 come from several strategic upgrades, including an enhanced exhaust system and modified intake ducts. Subaru’s engineers have also optimized the engine control unit (ECU), resulting in peak power delivery at 5,700 rpm and maximum torque available from a low 2,000 rpm. The powertrain modifications are complemented by a comprehensive chassis upgrade package that includes 19-inch BBS forged wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (255/35R19), high-performance Brembo front brakes, and electronically controlled dampers.
The exterior of the S210 showcases Subaru’s commitment to aerodynamic efficiency and visual distinction. A specially designed body kit incorporating a carbon fiber rear spoiler and black accent pieces helps distinguish this special edition from standard WRX models. The interior receives equally thoughtful attention, featuring eight-way adjustable Recaro carbon bucket seats, eye-catching red seatbelts, and piano-black trim elements throughout the cabin. Each vehicle will carry a unique serial number plate, emphasizing its exclusive nature.
The decision to equip the S210 with a CVT marks a controversial pivot for the STI brand, which has historically been synonymous with engaging, driver-focused manual transmissions. Subaru attempts to justify this choice by highlighting the transmission’s performance-oriented tuning and the addition of a dedicated fluid cooler, though enthusiasts may remain skeptical of this departure from tradition.
Production of the S210 will be strictly limited to 500 units, with orders opening in spring 2025. While pricing details remain under wraps, the combination of extensive performance upgrades, limited availability, and STI branding suggests a significant premium over the standard WRX model.
This latest iteration of the WRX STI represents a pivotal moment in Subaru’s performance car history, reflecting the automotive industry’s broader transition toward more efficient and technologically advanced powertrains. Whether this evolution will be embraced by the brand’s devoted following remains to be seen, as the absence of a manual transmission option challenges long-held expectations about what defines a true STI model.
The S210’s debut raises intriguing questions about the future direction of performance cars in an era of increasing regulatory pressure and changing consumer preferences. While some may view the CVT inclusion as a compromise, others might see it as a necessary adaptation to ensure the survival of high-performance variants in an evolving automotive landscape.
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